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Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has promised to deliver at least 10,000 megawatts of electricity within four years if he wins the 2027 election.

What he said

Speaking at the party's town hall meeting in Oregun, Lagos, on Thursday, 12 November 2026, which went ahead despite an attack on the venue by suspected thugs that morning, Obi said unreliable electricity was one of the biggest obstacles to economic growth and industrialisation. He said his government would declare an immediate state of emergency on security, education and electricity, and would generate, transmit and distribute at least 10,000MW. He said Nigeria currently generates and distributes roughly 4,000MW, and compared the country's power supply unfavourably with South Africa's.

Background

Power supply has long been one of Nigeria's most persistent problems. President Bola Tinubu's government has begun a ₦30bn programme to distribute free prepaid meters. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Tinubu to take personal responsibility for worsening insecurity in Nigeria.

The figures

In a statement issued on Thursday, 12 November 2026, by Phrank Shaibu, director of strategic communication for his campaign, Atiku cited a security tracker run by the Centre for Democracy and Development, which recorded 638 people killed in insecurity incidents in October, up from 396 in September. The North-East accounted for 409 of the deaths. He also pointed to United Nations figures showing that nearly 64,000 people have fled violence in northern Nigeria and crossed into Niger.

His demand

The statement said the President should accept responsibility for the security situation rather than blame others.

Background

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has made insecurity and the economy key themes of his campaign. This week the DSS intercepted a large weapons consignment in Sokoto State. The Presidency had not responded to the statement at the time of writing. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Veteran Fuji musician Adewale Ayuba has declared his support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election, explaining why he changed his stance on campaigning for politicians.

What he said

In an interview reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Ayuba said he had previously stayed away from political campaigns because he wanted to judge the President's performance for himself. He said his decision was based on what he had personally experienced, not on politicians' promises. He pointed to five major roads leading into his hometown of Ikenne in Ogun State, which he said were now in good condition, and recalled how difficult it was to get fuel for his band's trucks early in his career, saying fuel is now easier to access. He also said parents can now be more confident their children will graduate on time because of fewer strikes by university lecturers.

His message

Ayuba urged Nigerians to acknowledge improvements when they happen instead of focusing only on the negatives.

Background

Celebrities have been increasingly vocal on both sides of the 2027 race.

Social media personality and relationship coach Blessing CEO has admitted that she did not have breast cancer, months after telling the public she was battling the disease.

What she said

In an interview with activist VeryDarkMan (VDM), reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, she said a medical check-up had found a lump in her breast, but that it was not cancerous. She admitted that she used the discovery to tell people it was cancer because she wanted financial support. She said she first gave the impression that she was thinking of selling her car and house, before fans encouraged her to share her account details so they could donate.

How the donations ended

She said money started coming in from members of the public until VeryDarkMan questioned the fundraising and demanded proof of her diagnosis, after which the donations stopped.

US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow as efforts to end the war in Ukraine continue.

The meeting

The envoys spent more than two hours with Putin in the Kremlin on Thursday, 12 November 2026. Kushner reportedly pushed for European countries to join the talks so they could become multilateral, something Moscow has so far resisted. Putin said Russia has never opposed dialogue with Europe but insisted there could be only one dividing line with Ukraine, a state border. No breakthrough was announced, and a Kremlin adviser said Putin would continue the discussion with President Donald Trump at the APEC summit in China later this month.

Abu Dhabi talks

The meeting came a day after talks in Abu Dhabi, the first direct negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in nine months, which produced a prisoner exchange deal but no agreement on territory.

What happens next

The envoys were due to travel to Dublin to brief Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has spoken of a window of opportunity for a deal. The European Union is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has confirmed that four of its students have died after an off-campus party in Nsukka, Enugu State.

What happened

Speaking to journalists on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Ortuanya said 10 students were involved in the incident at the party on Wednesday, 11 November, which had been organised to celebrate a friend finishing his final-year examinations. He said the four who died allegedly consumed substances believed to be a mixture of alcohol and drugs. The other six are receiving treatment in different hospitals. Earlier reports had put the death toll as high as seven.

University responds

The Vice-Chancellor described the deaths as one too many and declared three days of mourning in honour of the students. He also corrected reports that all the students were from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, saying they came from different departments. The exact substances involved have not been officially identified, and it is not clear whether the police have opened an investigation.

Police investigate

The Enugu State Police Command said on Thursday evening that it had opened an investigation into the deaths. It said the four victims, two men and two women, fell ill after allegedly drinking alcoholic beverages at a gathering at a hostel in Nsukka and were confirmed dead on arrival at hospital. Police said the drinks had been recovered from the scene and the bodies taken to a mortuary for autopsy.

Background

Drug and alcohol misuse among young people has become a growing public health concern in Nigeria.

Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde has explained why he is running against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, three years after supporting him.

His reasons

In a newsletter published on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Makinde, the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), said his decision was not about personal rivalry or a desire to live in Aso Rock. He said he backed Tinubu in 2023 because he believed the President's experience and relationships could unite the country. He listed four concerns: that improved economic figures have not translated into better lives for ordinary Nigerians; that the government keeps blaming problems it inherited; that political alliances appear to serve political rather than national interests, while opposition parties have been weakened; and that fuel subsidy removal and currency reforms came without enough protection for citizens.

What he would have done

Makinde said he would have used the transition period to coordinate with governors through the National Economic Council and prepare support measures before removing the subsidy. He pointed to Oyo's response, saying his government deployed extra buses, froze fares and introduced half-price travel for students and the elderly within 11 days, and later delivered food relief to 200,000 households. He also noted that Tinubu had opposed an abrupt subsidy removal under President Goodluck Jonathan in 2012.

Background

The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027. The President has defended his reforms, saying ending the subsidy freed money for infrastructure and other investments. His campaign had not responded to the newsletter at the time of writing.

Afrobeats star Asake has announced a major end-of-year concert in Lagos.

The show

In a short video on Instagram on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the singer, whose real name is Ahmed Ololade, announced 'M$NEY in Lagos', which will take place on 20 December at Oasis Ground on Coastal Road, Victoria Island. Ticket prices reportedly start at ₦100,000 and go up to ₦20 million for the most expensive package, making it one of the priciest concerts of the festive season.

Background

Asake rose to fame in 2020 with his hit 'Lady' and joined Olamide's YBNL label in 2022. He has released four studio albums: 'Mr Money With The Vibes' (2022), 'Work of Art' (2023), 'Lungu Boy' (2024) and 'M$NEY' (2026). In February 2025 he launched his own label, Giran Republik. He has earned two Grammy nominations, for 'Amapiano' with Olamide and 'MMS' with Wizkid. The Lagos show comes during a busy December, with Olamide also announcing a YBNL reunion concert in the city on 18 December.

Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are reportedly interested in Nigerian teenager Oluwakemi Adegbuyi after her performances for the Flamingos at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

Her tournament

The 16-year-old forward played in all seven of Nigeria's matches in Morocco, scoring two goals and providing one assist as the Flamingos became the first African team to win the competition. Scouts from both clubs are said to see her as a candidate for an early move to European football, according to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026. Neither club has commented.

Her rise

Adegbuyi plays for FC Robo Queens in the Nigeria Women Football League and was named the league's Player of the Season for 2025/26 after scoring 11 goals. She was also named Player of the Tournament at the WAFU B Girls' Cup and at the WAFU B Champions League qualifiers, where she played for Edo Queens.

Background

If a move to Barcelona happens, she would follow Super Falcons legend Asisat Oshoala. The Flamingos have been showered with rewards since their win, including ₦100 million savings certificates for each player from President Tinubu.

Motorists may see some relief at the pump as petrol prices begin to fall.

The cuts

A manager at an MRS filling station in Abuja told reporters on Thursday, 12 November 2026, that the company had reduced its pump price from ₦1,408 to ₦1,399 per litre, a cut of ₦9. It is not yet clear whether the new price applies across the company's whole network. Some depot owners who buy from Dangote Refinery have also reportedly lowered their wholesale prices from as high as ₦1,290 to ₦1,215 per litre.

Why prices are falling

The reductions follow a fall in global crude oil prices, which recently dropped to their lowest level since August, and Dangote Refinery's switch to a pricing system linked to international petrol prices, which reportedly cut its loading price to ₦1,250 per litre.

Background

MRS is a major retail partner of Dangote Refinery. The industry regulator has also given the refinery and marketers a deadline of 9 December to comply with a new pricing framework. Meanwhile, cooking gas prices have risen sharply in some states.

Ghana has unveiled a new series of banknotes as part of efforts to modernise its currency.

The new notes

The Bank of Ghana launched the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series on Thursday, 12 November 2026, with the notes due to enter circulation on 1 December. The bank says they have improved security features, last longer and are smaller and easier to carry. The designs feature historical figures, national heroes, historic sites and monuments, and include traditional Adinkra symbols on Ghanaian banknotes for the first time.

What the governor said

Bank of Ghana Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama said a currency is more than a means of exchange and reflects a country's ability to manage its own monetary affairs. He said confidence in a currency depends on sound economic policy, strong institutions and public trust.

Background

Nigeria's own attempt to redesign the naira in late 2022 caused severe cash shortages in early 2023.

A town hall meeting of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lagos was disrupted on Thursday morning, 12 November 2026, when suspected thugs stormed the venue.

What happened

The attackers, armed with cutlasses, cudgels and stones, arrived at an event centre in Oregun, Ikeja, where supporters of NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso had gathered. The atmosphere had been calm, with supporters singing and dancing before the meeting began. According to a journalist at the scene, the group was heard saying the NDC supporters were few and could be overpowered, and some members were heard asking for clearance to enter with guns.

Supporters fight back

Many people inside the hall fled when the attackers forced their way in, while motorists on Kudirat Abiola Way turned back to avoid the area. NDC supporters then regrouped, reportedly chased the attackers out of the hall and caught one of them in the car park. It is not clear how many people were injured, who sent the attackers, or whether anyone has been arrested. The police had not publicly commented at the time of writing.

Meeting goes ahead

Despite the attack, the town hall went ahead later in the day, with Obi addressing supporters and pledging to deliver at least 10,000 megawatts of electricity within four years if elected.

Background

Obi won Lagos in the 2023 presidential election as the Labour Party candidate, with more than 580,000 votes, in a state seen as a stronghold of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Campaign-related violence has been reported against several parties in recent weeks, and on Wednesday the Inspector-General of Police warned officers not to aid thuggery, while the European Union raised concerns about violence ahead of the 16 January 2027 election.

Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has publicly criticised Edo State governor Monday Okpebholo over the condition of roads in the state.

What he said

In posts on his Instagram Stories on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the actor said he had just travelled by road through Edo and was shocked by what he saw. He described the roads as dangerously bad and a real safety risk for travellers, and questioned how a state with such a proud cultural and historical identity could still have crumbling roads. He tagged the governor and said the people of Edo deserve better.

Background

On the same day, comedian Sabinus criticised the Rivers State government over the state of roads in Rivers. Okpebholo, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), became Edo governor in November 2024. His government had not publicly responded to the actor's comments at the time of writing.

Comedian and skit maker Sabinus, also known as Mr Funny, has criticised the Rivers State government over the condition of roads and public facilities in the state.

What he said

In a video shared on Instagram on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the comedian said his home state of Rivers had some of the worst roads he had seen, with refuse dumps everywhere. He said the state has a governor, council chairmen and lawmakers who drive past the problems with sirens every day, yet nothing changes. He also asked officials in charge of sports how money meant for the state stadium was being spent, given its condition.

Background

Siminalayi Fubara has governed Rivers since 2023 and has declared support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election. Sabinus's comments came on the same day actor IK Ogbonna criticised Edo State's governor over bad roads. The Rivers State government had not publicly responded at the time of writing.

The United States has withdrawn from the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar because of security concerns.

What happened

In a letter to players and staff, reported on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, US Soccer said it had cancelled the team's pre-tournament camp and would no longer take part, citing a State Department travel advisory that places Qatar at Level 3, urging Americans to reconsider travel because of the risk of armed conflict in the region. The federation said the well-being of its players and staff was its top priority.

Background

The tournament is due to begin on 19 November, just over a week after the announcement. It was not immediately clear how FIFA would replace the US team. Nigeria's under-17 women's team, the Flamingos, recently won the women's edition of the tournament in Morocco.

President Bola Tinubu has promised interest-free loans for small-scale farmers as part of his re-election pitch.

What he announced

Speaking at Dutse Township Stadium in Jigawa State on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, where he also commissioned 400 tractors and other farm machinery bought by the state government, the President said the loans would help boost food production and food security. He also unveiled the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign manifesto, titled 'From Reforms to Prosperity', which he described as a plan to build on his economic reforms and spread prosperity. He promised better welfare and pay for the armed forces and police.

Defending subsidy removal

Tinubu defended his decision to end the petrol subsidy in May 2023, saying the money saved had been freed up for infrastructure and other investments, and questioned how opposition politicians who promise to restore the subsidy would pay for it. The removal led to sharp rises in fuel, transport and food prices, which remain a major concern for households ahead of the election.

Background

The President urged Jigawa residents to vote for the APC in the 16 January 2027 election. During the same visit, former Jigawa governor Sule Lamido denied a claim by Vice-President Kashim Shettima that he supports the APC.

Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has been given a traditional title by the Emir of Gwandu in Kebbi State.

The title

The Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar, turbaned Seyi as Dan Zaki Gwandu, which translates as 'Son of the Lion of Gwandu', at the palace in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. The Emir said the conferment was the first of its kind in the history of the emirate.

The President's message

In a statement issued on Thursday by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President thanked the Emir and the emirate council, saying the honour reflected friendship, mutual respect and unity among Nigeria's peoples. He praised Seyi's work on youth engagement and community development, including through the City Boy Movement, and urged him to deepen his commitment to young people, peaceful coexistence and service to the country.

Background

Seyi Tinubu has become increasingly visible in his father's re-election campaign, and recently received a Middle Belt youth group that pledged support for the President.

Celebrity fashion designer Veekee James has sparked talk of a second pregnancy after sharing a new photo on Instagram.

The post

The photo, shared on Thursday, 12 November 2026, with the caption 'The beginning of a beautiful bond', appears to many fans to show a baby bump. Veekee did not directly confirm a pregnancy. Social media personality Enioluwa, comedian Broda Shaggi and reality star Tacha were among the celebrities who left congratulatory messages, while some fans were left confused.

Background

Veekee James, whose full name is Victoria Atere James, and her husband Femi Atere welcomed their first daughter, Eliana, on 2 May 2026 in the United States. Earlier this week, she went viral after recounting an unusual test she set her husband to prove his love.

Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick following a poor start to the Premier League season.

Why he was sacked

United have won only one of their first 10 league matches, against Ipswich Town in August, leaving them in the relegation zone. Their other wins this season came in the Champions League. According to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026, club executives met co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco to finalise the decision. Carrick and his backroom staff are reportedly set to receive about £5 million in compensation.

Pochettino to take charge

Reports say the club lined up a replacement before ending Carrick's tenure, approaching US Soccer about releasing Mauricio Pochettino from his contract as head coach of the United States men's team. The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager is said to have agreed to take charge at Old Trafford. Releasing him from his US contract is reported to cost about £7 million.

Background

Carrick,, a former United midfielder, first stepped in after the dismissal of Ruben Amorim last season and did well enough to earn a permanent two-year contract in May, having guided the club into the Champions League. His first full season in charge has fallen well short of that early promise.

What happens next

United have not yet officially confirmed Pochettino's appointment.

Singer Speed Darlington has made a public apology to Burna Boy, appealing to the Grammy-winning star to withdraw the court charges filed against him.

What he said

In a video posted on Instagram on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, admitted that his words may have caused Burna Boy pain and embarrassment. He said he had wrongly assumed that other people shared his own temperament and tolerance, and pledged to stop all comments about the singer, direct or indirect, if the charges are withdrawn. He also promised to stop mentioning Burna Boy's name altogether once the matter is settled.

How the feud began

The dispute escalated in October 2024, when Speed Darlington posted videos questioning Burna Boy's Grammy win for his album 'Twice as Tall' and making disparaging remarks about him. The matter later became a legal case, with Speed Darlington facing charges filed after a complaint from Burna Boy's camp.

How people reacted

The apology drew a wave of reactions online, with many users surprised by Speed Darlington's change of tone. Burna Boy had not publicly responded at the time of writing.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu was reportedly met with chants of Peter Obi's name as he campaigned for President Bola Tinubu at a festival in Abia State.

What happened

Kalu, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker who represents Bende Federal Constituency, was addressing the Item Okpi Festival, an annual cultural celebration in Bende Local Government Area, on Saturday. According to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the audience responded with loud and sustained chants of Obi's name rather than applause. When a woman on stage began a pro-Obi song, Kalu reportedly asked her to switch to a pro-Tinubu song, but the chanting continued. The Deputy Speaker was said to have remarked in Igbo that the crowd did not seem to want a university the President plans to build for them, and suggested some of those chanting were not from Item.

Background

Abia is governed by Alex Otti of the Labour Party, a former ally of Obi who has said he supports Tinubu as the sitting president while acknowledging that his party has its own candidate. Obi, now the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), remains popular in the South-East, where the APC is working hard to win support ahead of the 16 January 2027 election. Kalu has not publicly commented on the video.

The deputy national publicity secretary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Abdulmumin Abdulsalami, has resigned from the party.

His reasons

In a resignation letter addressed to NDC national chairman Senator Moses Cleopas and reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, Abdulsalami said he was a foundation member who played a central role in the party's early growth, but that his efforts had clashed with the interests of a few powerful officials. He said the decision was about his peace of mind, citing what he described as repeated injustices against him. He declined to name the officials he blamed.

What next

Abdulsalami said he was stepping away from partisan politics entirely. A party source quoted in reports claimed he had not been paid a salary or given a working budget since the party was formed, and that the NDC's national leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, had persuaded him to stay on several occasions since October.

Background

Abdulsalami was previously the NDC's interim chairman in Kogi State. The NDC is the party of presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso. His exit comes a day after Obi's former spokesman Yunusa Tanko took a senior role in the SDP's presidential campaign. The party had not publicly responded to his resignation at the time of writing.

Nigerian actor and content creator Justin Chukwudi Ugonna, popularly known as Justin UG, has joined the United States Air Force.

What he shared

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the entertainer shared photos and videos from his military graduation ceremony, showing him in uniform alongside fellow graduates. He said he had never imagined himself pursuing a military career, and described the training as physically and mentally demanding, saying it had tested him in ways he had never experienced. He said the experience showed him how much the human mind can endure.

The European Union has expressed concern about rising election-related violence, hate speech and political intimidation in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What the EU said

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Civil Society and Human Rights Defenders Forum in Abuja, reported on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, warned that such incidents erode democratic gains and discourage citizens from taking full part in elections. He said free civic and political space allows civil society groups and citizens to monitor how elections are run, track campaign promises and hold leaders to account, and helps prevent authorities from manipulating the rules.

Support for institutions

Mignot said open public debate, independent media, peaceful assembly and an active civil society are vital to credible elections. He said the EU would continue to support Nigerian institutions, including the National Human Rights Commission, to help create a free and fair electoral environment, while stressing that it would not interfere in domestic politics.

Background

The warning follows a string of violent incidents linked to campaigns in several states. Peter Obi's convoy was attacked in Calabar, NDC supporters' vehicles were destroyed at a rally in Delta, and APC supporters were attacked ahead of a rally in Katsina. The Inspector-General of Police has also warned officers against being used by politicians. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has warned police officers against allowing politicians to use them to undermine the 2027 elections.

What he said

Speaking on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, at a monthly meeting with senior officers in Abuja, Disu said the police would remain neutral and give equal protection to all candidates, parties, supporters and voters. He said he would not tolerate any officer using police authority to advance the interests of a party, candidate or sponsor, and that officers found colluding with politicians, aiding thuggery or interfering with voters' rights would be disciplined. He told officers that the force is not a tool for any politician and urged them not to allow themselves to be used.

Officers to stay at posts

The IGP directed commissioners of police and other senior officers to remain in their commands throughout the electoral process.

Background

The warning comes amid concern over political violence ahead of the elections and a recent controversy over a video showing police officers escorting businessman Blord, which the police said was unlawful. On the same day, the police said they had raided so-called phone farms used to spread election misinformation. The European Union has also raised concerns about violence and hate speech before the polls.

Households in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states are paying much more for cooking gas after a sharp rise in prices over the past month.

The new prices

According to reports on Thursday, 12 November 2026, retail prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at several outlets rose from around ₦1,200 to ₦1,800 per kilogramme. In parts of Ogun State, including Magboro, Mowe and Ibafo, some residents said they were paying as much as ₦1,900 per kg. In Oyo State, prices reportedly range from about ₦1,450 per kg at direct outlets to between ₦1,500 and ₦1,650 at neighbourhood retailers.

Why prices rose

The increase follows a reported 31.8 per cent rise in depot prices, from ₦1,100 to ₦1,450 per kg, which has pushed up costs along the supply chain.

Impact on households

Some households say they are considering returning to charcoal because they can no longer afford gas.

Background

The latest increase comes even as petrol prices have eased slightly, with Dangote Refinery reportedly cutting its petrol price this week.

A court in Abuja has ordered that investigative journalist Daniel Ojukwu be held in prison pending a hearing on his bail application.

The charges

Ojukwu, who works for the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, was arraigned on a 12-count charge of allegedly breaching Nigeria's Cybercrimes Act, and the court ordered his remand on Tuesday, 10 November 2026. The charges relate to reports he published about Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, who was senior special assistant on the Sustainable Development Goals under former President Muhammadu Buhari and now holds the same role under President Bola Tinubu. The charges have not been tested at trial.

Press freedom concerns

The decision drew widespread criticism from media freedom advocates, who have long argued that the cybercrimes law is used to silence journalists. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, at least 29 journalists have been prosecuted under the law since it was enacted in 2015. Nigeria is ranked 112th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders.

Background

Ojukwu was previously detained by police for several days in 2024 over a report on the same official, a case that also drew national and international criticism.

Images of recharge cards bearing the logo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), reportedly handed out at President Bola Tinubu's campaign rally in Rivers State, have sparked debate on social media.

What happened

A man who came across pictures of the ₦200 airtime cards questioned online what anyone could achieve with such a small amount, and his comment, shared on Thursday, 12 November 2026, quickly drew reactions. The cards were said to have circulated among people who attended the rally.

How people reacted

Some users mocked the giveaway and said the money would be better spent on fixing the country, while others joked about how the airtime might be used. Some warned that small gifts like this could still influence some voters.

Background

Campaign giveaways have become a talking point ahead of the 2027 elections. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently accused the APC of handing out cash and gifts at campaign events and called on the anti-graft agency and INEC to investigate. The APC had not publicly responded to the recharge card images at the time of writing. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Yunusa Tanko, a former spokesman for Peter Obi and ex-national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, has joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) campaign for the 2027 presidential election.

The new role

At the inauguration of the SDP Presidential Campaign Council in Abuja on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, Tanko was named its national coordinator. In his acceptance speech he thanked the party's leadership and pledged full commitment to its presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo. He said he had reached out to both Obi and Senator Seriake Dickson, national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), before taking up the post, and described his relationship with Adebayo as dating back to the 2023 election cycle.

How he left Obi's camp

Tanko was removed as national coordinator of the Obidient Movement in October 2026 and briefly served as Obi's political adviser for Northern Nigeria. He resigned from that role on 30 October, saying he was returning to the National Consultative Front, which he co-chairs with Professor Pat Utomi. He took on that position in October after the death of former House of Representatives Speaker Ghali Na'Abba, who had co-chaired the group.

Background

Obi, the 2023 Labour Party candidate, is now the NDC presidential candidate with Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate. Adebayo was also the SDP's presidential candidate in 2023. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027. Obi's campaign had not publicly reacted to Tanko's new role at the time of writing.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Kaduna State government of sealing Arewa House to prevent its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, from meeting Northern stakeholders there.

What the ADC said

In a statement on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, issued by Phrank Shaibu, director of strategic communication for the ADC presidential campaign council, the party said Atiku's team had chosen Arewa House in Kaduna as the venue for a consultation on Thursday, 13 November, but that the state government sealed the building beforehand. Atiku himself said his campaign had proposed the venue and that the government sealed it the same day.

The party's complaint

The ADC described Arewa House as part of the shared heritage of Northern Nigeria and said using it to block a political gathering was an insult to the region. It held President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) responsible, saying a ruling party must not use government power to block opposition activities. There was no immediate public response from the Kaduna State government, which is led by the APC, to the allegation.

Background

Arewa House, the former residence of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the late Premier of the Northern Region, is a historic institution in Kaduna. Atiku is contesting the 2027 presidential election despite a court ruling that voided his nomination, which the ADC has appealed.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has reportedly removed some of its spokespersons following the controversy over a failed attempt to demonstrate Nigeria's 112 emergency number on live television.

Only three can now speak

According to reports, President Bola Tinubu's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, announced on Wednesday that the spokespersons earlier named by the campaign council had been removed.

He said only three officials are now authorised to speak on behalf of the council: Senator Abdulaziz Yari, the Director General; Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake; and Minister of Information Mohammed Idris.

What happened on live TV

It all started on Tuesday, when APC official Alwan Hassan appeared as a guest on a live television politics programme.

While discussing the achievements of the APC-led government, Hassan pointed to the 112 emergency number as an example of a working public service. He explained that Nigerians could dial it whenever they needed urgent help, whether in a medical emergency, a security threat or a road accident.

To prove his point, he challenged the host to dial 112 right there in the studio.

That was where things took an unexpected turn. The host tried the number, but the call failed to connect. He tried again, with the same result.

Hassan insisted the line was working and suggested network problems might have stopped the calls going through. His explanation did little to stop the criticism that followed.

The backlash

Clips of the interview spread quickly online, with Nigerians questioning the reliability of a service people are meant to depend on in life-threatening situations. Opposition figures also seized on the incident to challenge the government's claims about improved public services.

The real question

Is removing spokespersons really the answer, or should the government be more concerned about finding out why the emergency calls failed?

Someone calling 112 during an armed robbery, a serious accident or a medical emergency may not have the luxury of trying again and again until the network connects.

One failed demonstration does not prove the whole emergency system is broken. But it raises questions that deserve proper answers, and for many Nigerians, those answers matter far more than who is allowed to speak for a political campaign.

Over to you

Was removing the spokespersons necessary, or should the priority be investigating and improving the 112 emergency response system?

Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso have visited Yelewata community in Benue State, bringing some hope to residents who have endured years of hardship and neglect.

A moment of remembrance

Yelewata was the scene of a deadly attack in June 2025 that left many residents dead and shocked the nation. During the visit, Obi knelt to lay a wreath at the memorial bearing the names of the victims, as a large crowd looked on.

Donations and promises

The two political leaders promised to provide a motorised borehole to help address the community's water needs. They also donated ₦10 million to support vulnerable children, while Professor Shija contributed another ₦2 million towards the education of orphans.

The people speak

Beyond the donations, the people of Yelewata had their own stories to tell. They spoke about years of neglect, the difficulties they face every day and the lack of meaningful government support.

Imagine living for years without some of the basic things that should make life easier, while those elected to serve appear distant from your suffering. For residents, the visit was a chance to make their voices heard and draw attention to their situation.

Action, not just visits

Promises must be followed by action. The community needs lasting solutions, not just occasional visits.

Leadership should be about compassion, listening to the people and doing something practical to improve their lives.

Over to you

What do you think of this visit by Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to Yelewata?

Shirley U. Emehelu, a lawyer born in Nigeria, has been appointed lieutenant governor of New Jersey in the United States.

The appointment

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill appointed Emehelu on Monday, 9 November 2026, making her the state's fifth lieutenant governor and the first immigrant to hold the office. She was sworn in at the Statehouse in Trenton by the state's Chief Justice, Stuart Rabner. The appointment also means that, for the first time in New Jersey's history, women hold the state's two highest executive offices at the same time. Emehelu will also serve as Secretary of State, a role that covers government administration and oversight of elections.

Why she was chosen

Sherrill described Emehelu as an experienced public servant and pointed to her record prosecuting financial crimes, protecting consumers, defending civil rights and tackling government waste. The governor also praised her leadership as acting Secretary of State, including overseeing the state's recent elections.

Her Nigerian roots

Emehelu, who moved from Nigeria to the United States as a child, said she was proud of what the appointment means for Black women, immigrants and people who share her Nigerian heritage, and expressed hope that it would inspire young people to serve. She said she would work with the governor on the cost of living and economic opportunity.

The Nigeria Police Force says it has raided facilities allegedly used to manipulate online conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What the police said

Speaking on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, at a webinar on AI, misinformation and the 2027 elections, Assistant Commissioner of Police Bashir Abdullahi, who represented the Inspector-General of Police, said officers had carried out targeted raids on so-called phone farms after receiving information about a coordinated effort to interfere with the polls. He explained that a single operator can use hundreds of phones and automated accounts to push the same message, creating the impression that many people are independently discussing an issue. He said the raids had disrupted the operation.

Suspect arrested

Abdullahi said a suspect was in custody after officers traced allegedly false reports about a candidate from the South-South. He said the reports were allegedly meant to discredit the candidate and influence voters. The suspect has not been named or charged in court.

Free speech

He said the police would prosecute people found to have spread false information capable of undermining the elections, but stressed that enforcement would be guided by the law and that the force would not interfere with legitimate public debate. He also said the police had acquired tools that can detect deepfake videos, altered photos and cloned voices.

Background

At the same event, INEC said its own staff in about 10 states had uploaded AI-generated photos to the voters' register. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has been announced as one of the performers at the 2027 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

The line-up

The festival's organisers revealed the line-up on Instagram on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. Ayra Starr is on the Sunday bill for both weekends and is expected to perform on 11 and 18 April 2027. The Sunday shows are headlined by American R&B star SZA, with Don Toliver, Kygo, Jorja Smith, Victoria Monét and Tove Lo among the other acts. Dua Lipa is among the festival's other headliners. Coachella takes place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, from 9 to 11 April and 16 to 18 April.

Her reaction

The singer shared the news on her own Instagram page with a short message telling fans she would see them in the desert.

Background

Ayra Starr, signed to Mavin Records, rose to international fame with hits such as 'Rush' and has become one of the most successful young Nigerian artists of her generation. Coachella is one of the world's biggest music festivals.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has identified officials in about 10 states who uploaded photographs generated by artificial intelligence to Nigeria's voters' register.

What INEC said

Speaking on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, at a webinar on AI, misinformation and the 2027 elections, INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, who chairs the commission's Information and Voter Education Committee, said a large number of AI-generated pictures had been posted onto the register and had since been taken down. He said the commission had the names of the staff involved across about 10 states and would take disciplinary action against them.

Limits on what INEC can do

Haruna said it could be difficult for the commission to stop members of the public from digitally altering their own photographs before submitting them, but that INEC could act directly where its own staff were responsible.

Background

The issue of AI-generated images on the register had already drawn public attention, raising concerns about the accuracy of the voter roll ahead of the general elections. The presidential election is scheduled for 16 January 2027.

The Flamingos, Nigeria's under-17 women's football team, have been welcomed at the Presidential Villa in Abuja after winning the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

The reception

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu received the players and officials on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, in what was described as a celebratory homecoming visit and the federal government's formal recognition of the team's achievement.

₦100 million each

During the visit, the First Lady announced that the President was giving each player a ₦100 million savings certificate. The money will be held in trust in designated bank accounts until each player turns 18, so the teenage champions will not have immediate access to it. The reward was extended to the coaching staff: the head coach will receive ₦100 million in cash and each member of the technical crew ₦50 million.

The win

The Flamingos beat Japan 2–1 in the final in Morocco on Saturday, 7 November, with goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, becoming the first African side to win the tournament. After losing their opening game to Poland, they won five matches in a row, including victories over defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil. The win means Nigeria has now won the FIFA U-17 World Cup in both the men's and women's competitions.

Rewards

The Senate has also pledged ₦100 million to the team, and the players had earlier received $50,000 in cash. FIFA does not award prize money at this level, so rewards depend on governments and sponsors.

Manchester United are reportedly close to agreeing terms with Mauricio Pochettino to take charge of the club.

What is reported

According to reports on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the deal would only go ahead if United decide to sack their current head coach, Michael Carrick. No decision has been publicly announced, and the club has not commented.

Talks with US Soccer

According to further reports on Thursday, 12 November, United have contacted US Soccer about triggering a reported $10 million release clause in Pochettino's contract, and expect to spend about $2 million more to bring in his backroom staff. Senior executives reportedly met minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday and scheduled a formal meeting with Carrick for Thursday, after which he is widely expected to leave. United are 18th in the Premier League with just one league win this season.

Who is Pochettino

The Argentine has previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, and was appointed head coach of the United States men's national team in September 2024.

Background

Carrick has come under growing pressure after a run of poor results, and senior figures at the club are reported to have met to discuss his future. Several candidates have been linked with the job in recent days.

At least 20 people have reportedly been killed in an operation involving Salvadoran troops targeting suspected gang members in Haiti.

A country held hostage

The reported incident comes as Haiti continues to struggle with widespread gang violence, kidnappings and insecurity, particularly in areas where armed groups have taken control of communities and forced thousands of residents to flee.

For years, ordinary Haitians have lived under the constant threat of armed gangs, with many families unable to go about their daily lives without fear.

Foreign forces on the ground

Soldiers from El Salvador have been in Haiti since early 2025 as part of an internationally backed mission to help the Haitian police fight the gangs, alongside forces from other countries.

The reported operation has raised fresh questions about the growing role of foreign security forces in efforts to restore order in the troubled Caribbean nation.

What we don't know

The circumstances of the reported deaths, including the identities of those killed and the exact role played by the Salvadoran troops, have not been independently confirmed.

Over to you

Can foreign military intervention finally help Haiti regain control from armed gangs, or will it only lead to more bloodshed?

The Nigeria Police Force has launched an investigation into officers seen in a video providing an escort for businessman and social media personality Linus Williams, popularly known as Blord.

What the police said

In a post on X on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the Force Public Relations Officer described the situation as unlawful and illegal, added the hashtag #NoToImpunity, and confirmed that a probe had begun. The statement did not make clear exactly which part of the incident is being investigated.

Background

The video drew attention after social media users pointed out that Blord had recently been seen in caps associated with Rabiu Kwankwaso, running mate to Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), fuelling speculation about his political leanings. Blord was recently released from detention and publicly thanked activist Omoyele Sowore, now a presidential candidate himself, for his intervention. In late 2025, President Bola Tinubu ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs.

How people reacted

The police announcement drew strong reactions online, with some users defending Blord. Blord had not publicly responded at the time of writing.